Fossil Fuel Treaty Director Advocates Proactive Approach Amidst Trade and Technology Hurdles
Cartagena (Colombia), April 4:India must take a proactive and united approach to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy if it hopes to navigate the global shift toward sustainability, said Alex Rafalowicz Maya, Director of the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty. Speaking at the recent World Health Organization (WHO) conference in Colombia, Maya stressed that coordinated global action is crucial in reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Political Will and Trade Challenges
Highlighting India's political momentum in embracing cleaner energy alternatives, Maya noted that the transition is influenced by complex factors, including global trade constraints and technological disruptions. “There have been challenges related to trade constraints on some technologies and certain disruptions in implementation,” he said. However, he remains optimistic about the future, citing the steady growth of electric mobility and expanding public transport in India.Fossil Fuel Dependency Remains Strong
Despite its commitment to a low-carbon future, India remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels, especially coal, which continues to play a critical role in electricity generation. As of FY24, fossil fuel-based power generation capacity increased by 2.44% to 243.22 GW, up from 237.27 GW the previous year. This includes coal, lignite, gas, and diesel-based sources.Meanwhile, India’s renewable energy capacity surged by 10.79% in the same period, rising to 190.57 GW in FY24 from 172.01 GW in FY23. Total power generation capacity grew by 6.22% to 441.97 GW.
Health Risks and Environmental Impact
Scientific consensus increasingly links fossil fuels to severe health and environmental impacts. From extraction to disposal, fossil fuels are cited as the primary driver of the climate crisis and a significant health hazard due to their toxic by-products.Maya stressed that the current fossil fuel-based energy system fails to serve marginalized populations effectively. “Nearly one billion people lack access to reliable electricity. The existing system has failed them,” he stated.
Community-Led Energy Solutions
He advocated for empowering local communities with clean energy alternatives, such as small-scale solar systems paired with centralized battery storage. “With minimal government support, these community energy systems can be transformative,” Maya explained, adding that such models have already demonstrated success in various regions.Need for Global Cooperation
Recognizing the complexities of global energy interdependence, Maya called for an international framework through the proposed Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, which aims to coordinate efforts among nations. “No country can exit the fossil fuel system alone,” he said. “We must explore ways to reduce both production and consumption. The first step is acknowledging the problem.”So far, 16 countries have endorsed the treaty, reinforcing the growing consensus on the need for collaborative action.
India’s Coal Concentration
According to government data, India’s coal reserves are concentrated in five states—Odisha (25.47%), Jharkhand (23.58%), Chhattisgarh (21.23%), West Bengal (8.72%), and Madhya Pradesh (8.43%)—highlighting the regional implications of any transition away from coal.As global pressure mounts to reduce carbon emissions, India’s pathway to energy transition will depend on strategic planning, international support, and a firm political commitment to a sustainable future.
